Senior Network Engineer

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Harikumar Sridharan

Designation: Manager

Role: Infra Ops Specialist

COGNIZANT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Mobile: 252-***-****

Email: *************@*****.***

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:

Network Engineer with extensive expertise in network engineering operations and support. Specializes in Versa SD-WAN, Cisco Routing and Switching, Palo Alto Networks, and Python automation technologies. Proficient in Versa SD-WAN, AWS Cloud Networking, Cisco solutions, and Palo Alto firewalls. A valued member of the Capital One Bank Retail Network Engineering team in Richmond, VA, with a proven ability to design, configure, implement, and troubleshoot complex network systems. Successfully led the migration of over 300 bank branches and cafes to SD-WAN, spearheaded automation initiatives, and managed large-scale network infrastructures. Dedicated to delivering high-performance solutions, optimizing operational efficiency, and upholding robust security standards. TECHNICAL SKILLS:

• Versa SD-WAN: Deployment, configuration, and management of Versa SD-WAN solutions. Highlighted the leadership in deploying and managing Versa SD-WAN, focusing on the achievements in enhancing network performance and security.

• Cisco Routing & Switching: Design, implementation, and support of Cisco networks, including SD-WAN migrations and device management. Emphasized the proficiency in Cisco devices, detailing the experience with design, implementation, and troubleshooting.

• Network Automation: Python scripting, Ansible playbooks, Cisco DNA Center or Catalyst Center automation. Outlined the skills in automating network processes, including the use of Python and Ansible to streamline operations.

• Palo Alto: Configuration, management, and security policy implementation for Palo Alto Firewalls. Detailed the expertise in configuring and managing Palo Alto Firewalls, showcasing the ability to enhance security measures.

• Routing Protocols: BGP, OSPF, NAT/PAT, DNAT, SNAT, IPSec, GRE, DMVPN, FHRP, STP, PVST, RSTP, DHCP, DNS, VLANs, ARP. Cisco Meraki

• Switching Technologies: VLAN, Private VLAN, VTP, STP, HSRP, GLBP, VXLAN

• WAN Technologies: SD-WAN, DIA, HDLC, PPP, MPLS, Frame Relay.

• Tools & Platforms: ServiceNow, Jira, Infoblox, NetBrain, Spectrum, HP Service Manager, HPNAS, NNM, ANM, NetQos, SolarWinds, Opnet, Wireshark, BlueZone, 3CDaemon, WinSCP. 2

• Cloud Networking: AWS VPC, Direct Connect, Transit Gateway, Route 53, Security Groups, Network ACLs, Elastic Load Balancers, CloudFormation, AWS CloudWatch and AWS Network Firewall.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

COGNIZANT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Infra Ops Specialist

January 2016 – Present

Key Responsibilities:

• Spearheaded the design and implementation of Versa SD-WAN solutions across Capital One's retail network, replacing traditional MPLS circuits with DIA to enhance network resiliency and performance.

• Successfully migrated 300+ bank branches and cafes to SD-WAN, improving uptime and delivering superior experiences for both associates and customers.

• Managed the end-to-end deployment of Versa SD-WAN Branch Flexs using Versa's Workflow, ensuring seamless integration and optimization of network resources.

• Developed comprehensive service templates for Versa SD-WAN devices via Director, standardizing configurations and streamlining network management.

• Utilized Versa Analytics Controller to diagnose and resolve complex network issues, ensuring consistent performance and availability.

• Executed security hardening for Versa devices using Ansible scripts, enhancing network security and compliance.

• Upgraded OSSpack files and VOS on Versa SD-WAN devices through Director and bootable USB sticks, maintaining cutting-edge network infrastructure.

• Managed the migration of legacy networks to Versa SD-WAN, achieving a 99.9% uptime and significantly improving network resilience and user experience.

• Implemented security hardening protocols for Versa SD-WAN devices using Ansible scripts, enhancing the security posture of the network.

• Utilized Versa Analytics Controller to troubleshoot network issues, providing actionable insights that improved network stability and reduced incident resolution times by 30%.

• Designed and implemented robust network architectures using Cisco routers and switches, including models 9300, 2960, 3750, 6500 series switches, and routers such as 1921, 2821, 2921, 3845, 4331.

• Migrated traditional MPLS networks to Cisco SD-WAN, optimizing network paths and enhancing application performance.

• Managed over 700 Cisco switches through Cisco DNA Center, standardizing software versions and configurations to ensure consistent network operations.

• Conducted daily health checks and proactive monitoring of Cisco devices, using tools like Cisco Prime Infrastructure to maintain network integrity. 3

• Resolved complex network issues by analyzing traffic patterns and utilizing tools like Wireshark and NetBrain for detailed diagnostics.

• Provided expert-level support and troubleshooting for routing protocols, including BGP, OSPF, EIGRP, and MPLS, ensuring seamless data flow and connectivity.

• Automated network configurations and routine tasks using Python, reducing manual workload and increasing efficiency by 50%.

• Developed Ansible playbooks for deploying and managing network devices, streamlining operations and minimizing errors.

• Created custom scripts and tools for network health monitoring and data analysis, enabling proactive maintenance and quicker issue resolution.

• Leveraged Cisco DNA Center APIs for automation, improving network provisioning and compliance checks.

• Spearheaded automation initiatives that improved operational efficiency, reduced human error, and accelerated deployment processes.

• Configured and managed Palo Alto Firewalls, implementing security policies and zones to protect network assets and maintain compliance.

• Conducted firewall audits and optimizations, ensuring secure and efficient traffic flow across the network.

• Designed and implemented scalable cloud networking solutions, including VPC peering and Transit Gateway configurations to enhance cross-region connectivity. Configured AWS Direct Connect for secure, high-speed data transfers and optimized hybrid cloud environments. Key Projects:

• Versa SD-WAN Migration Project: Led the successful migration of 300+ branches from MPLS to Versa SD-WAN, achieving a 99.9% uptime post-migration.

• DIA Implementation for Retail Networks: Implemented DIA across multiple sites, reducing latency and enhancing data throughput by 30%.

• Micro Segmentation: Segmenting 400+ plus sites to improve security. HCL AMERICA INC

Specialist

November 2008 – January 2016

Key Responsibilities:

• Took ownership of high-priority network incidents, assessing severity and ensuring SLA compliance for timely resolutions.

• Documented incidents with detailed observations and communicated updates to stakeholders, maintaining transparency and efficiency.

• Conducted daily health checks on routers, switches, load balancers, and firewalls, ensuring optimal network performance and security.

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• Configured and synchronized network devices with NetQos, ensuring compliance with policy standards and maintaining network integrity.

• Managed backup link migrations and code upgrades for Cisco network devices, ensuring seamless transitions and minimal disruptions.

• Coordinated with onsite teams to resolve issues and implement network enhancements, fostering collaboration and achieving project goals.

• Managed network operations for Microsoft Corporate Network Infrastructure, supporting over 18,000 devices across a global network.

• Owned and resolved priority network incidents, maintaining high SLA compliance and ensuring minimal disruption to services.

• Configured network devices, ensuring compliance with enterprise standards and optimizing network performance.

• Conducted firmware upgrades and migrations, coordinating with teams to ensure smooth transitions and minimal impact.

• Engaged with clients to document network incidents and provide transparent communication, fostering strong client relationships.

• Developed detailed runbooks and training materials for network operations, supporting new joiners and enhancing team capabilities.

EXPERTISE AREAS:

• Versa SD-WAN: Deployment, configuration, and management of Versa SD-WAN solutions.

• Cisco Routing & Switching: Design, implementation, and support of Cisco networks, including SD-WAN migrations and device management.

• Network Automation: Python scripting, Ansible playbooks, Cisco DNA Center automation, and custom tool development.

• Palo Alto: Configuration, management, and security policy implementation for Palo Alto Firewalls.

• Routing Protocols: BGP, OSPF, NAT/PAT, DNAT, SNAT, IPSec, GRE, DMVPN, FHRP, STP, PVST, RSTP, DHCP, DNS, VLANs, ARP.

• Switching Technologies: VLAN, Private VLAN, VTP, STP, HSRP, GLBP, VXLAN

• WAN Technologies: SD-WAN, DIA, HDLC, PPP, MPLS, Frame Relay.

• Tools & Platforms: ServiceNow, Jira, Infoblox, NetBrain, Spectrum, HP Service Manager, HPNAS, NNM, ANM, NetQos, SolarWinds, Opnet, Wireshark, BlueZone, 3CDaemon, WinSCP. CERTIFICATIONS & AWARDS:

• CCNP ENCOR: Cisco Certified Specialist - Enterprise Core 5

• CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate

• HCL’s O2 League (2011-2012): Recognized as a Super Achiever for two consecutive years EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical & Electronics JJ College of Engineering and Technology, Anna University, India PERSONAL DETAILS:

• Name: Harikumar Sridharan

• Date of Birth: January 13, 1986

• Contact Details: 598 Hazel Dr, Richmond, VA 23233

• Mobile: +1-252-***-****

• Email: *************@*****.***

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